Zachary Disabled Veteran and Former Mayor Pro Tem Seeks Justice Following PTSD-Related Arrest at McDonald’s

Zachary, LA — Former Zachary Councilman and Navy veteran Lael Montgomery is calling for justice after what he describes as an unjust and avoidable arrest at a McDonald’s in December.

Montgomery, who lives with PTSD, says he notified both McDonald’s staff and responding Zachary police officers of his medical condition, including a gout flare-up that left him unable to walk. After arriving to pick up a mobile order placed by a friend, staff told him to come inside — then called police when he explained he couldn’t.

When officers arrived, Montgomery says they ignored his health disclosures. “If you do not spell your name, that is a charge, and you will be charged,” one officer allegedly told him. Montgomery believes the officer misapplied the law, which allows for such demands only when someone’s identity is unknown or uncertain.

Montgomery was arrested and initially faced one charge. After refusing a plea deal and requesting legal counsel, two additional charges were added: resisting arrest and failure to carry identification.

“Instead of being treated with dignity, I was punished for being sick and disabled,” Montgomery said.

So far, no formal actions have been taken by the city, police department, or McDonald’s. But Montgomery is asking them — and the public — to do one thing:

“Will you listen to me?”